While Vanessa Merten was expecting her first child, she had a hard time finding information that she wanted. During her pregnancy, Vanessa spent many hours goggling and researching online. She decided that she wanted to make it easier for new parents to get the information they need all in one place.

That’s when Vanessa created the Pregnancy Podcast, which “helps moms and dads navigate all of the crazy awesomeness that is pregnancy, birth, and being a new parent”. The Pregnancy Podcast is a resource where parents can turn to for reliable information that goes beyond the typical pregnancy manual. Vanessa shares perspectives of moms, midwives, doulas, and the latest research to support new parents in their journey.

In this episode, Vanessa shares the inspiration behind her work and helpful tips for new and expectant parents.

Fear of the Unknown:

This is common for pregnant women as they undergo lots of tests, read information on what to expect when they become moms, but really have no idea what to expect since this is their first time bringing a child into the world.

Vanessa believes that the more educated you become about your pregnancy, the less intimidating it is.

You have the right to ask questions and make choices during your pregnancy.

Vanessa encourages women to speak up about their concerns during pregnancy and ask questions. She reminds you that you have a choice when it comes to certain tests, and that you don’t have to go along with everything your doctor says, if it doesn’t feel right to you.

How she manages her weekly podcast, full-time job, role as a new mommy and a wife:

Vanessa’s husband is at home with their son while she works. But beyond that, managing everything on her plate is “really just about being able to focus on one thing at a time”.

Quality time with her son and husband is a priority. Vanessa makes sure that she’s present during the hours that they spend together in the evenings. After her son goes to bed, Vanessa starts working on her podcast.

To make the most of her time, Vanessa sets a daily objective in the morning to keep her focused on what needs to be done that day. She uses her lunch break to get some tasks done. In the evening when she starts working on her podcast, she’s not distracted by checking her email or Facebook because she sticks to her daily objective.

How Vanessa stays motivated to keep going with her podcast:

When she feels frustrated or tired, Vanessa reminds herself of her why – that all of her hard work will pay off and ultimately allow her to spend more time with her family.

Vanessa’s biggest lesson so far:

That action trumps perfection. She’s learned that you have to take consistent action, keep moving forward, and not be so focused on making everything perfect.

Vanessa recommends that you get a copy of:

The Freedom Journal, by John Lee Dumas. This journal helps you accomplish a goal in 100 days.

Vanessa is working on…

Her new podcast, 40 Weeks, which is a series of (40) 5-minute episodes for expectant moms that end with a tip for dad. She’s continuing to produce the Pregnancy Podcast as well.

Where you can find Vanessa online:

http://pregnancypodcast.com

Vanessa’s parting words of wisdom:

“Just start and take that first step.”